Ear Squeeze Treatment

Treatment for barotitis media includes maneuvers to open up the Eustachian tubes and relieve pressure in the middle ear space. Antihistamines and decongestants medications may also help open the Eustachian tubes. Rarely, surgery is required to relieve the severely elevated pressure in the middle ear.

The Valsalva maneuver is used to equalize the pressure between the middle ear and the outside air, and relieves the pain. If you are flying, performing a Valsalva maneuver several times during ascent and descent may help prevent barotitis media.

To perform a Valsalva maneuver:

Close your mouth and pinch your nose.

Take a deep breath.

Expel the air from your lungs against the pinched nose and closed mouth: this forces air into the middle ear.